Is there a time limit on filing a claim?
Yes. The Workers’ Compensation Act provides a fixed, time period in which you may file a Claim Form. If you do not file a claim within that time, you may be risking your right to future benefits. These time limits, called “statutes of limitations,” are discussed in more detail in our “Guide for Employees.”
A worker must file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits within two years of the date of accident. For most occupational diseases, you must file a claim within two years of the date you were told the disease was caused by your work and within five years of the date you were last exposed at work. If after returning to work, you are again disabled, you must file a claim within two years of the date for which you were last paid compensation under an Award.
You still must file a claim with the Commission if the employer/carrier has voluntarily paid you lost wages or medical benefits and no Award Order was entered by the Commission.
This was copied from the Workers’ Compensation Commission Website.
The Injured Workers Law Firm is a Richmond, Virginia based firm solely focused on serving clients with workers' compensation claims in Virginia. If you have questions about your benefits or if you would like more information on the Virginia Workers’ Compensation system, order our book, “The Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia” , or call our office today (804) 755-7755.